Perfect use or typical use

All the methods are listed here, showing how effective they are with "perfect use". This is when the method is always used correctly.

Some methods are less effective with "typical use". This is when the method is not always used correctly – for example, missing a pill or getting the injection later than you need to. Some methods do not have typical use rates because they have no user failure.

Contraception is less effective at preventing pregnancy if not used correctly.

Long-active reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods

You do not have to remember to take or use these methods. They have no user failure, so are not less effective with typical use.

Contraceptive implant: more than 99% effective with perfect use. They work for 3 years, but can be taken out earlier. Fewer than 1 in 100 women using the implant will get pregnant in a year.

Intrauterine system (IUS): more than 99% effective. An IUS normally works for 3 to 5 years depending on the type, but can be taken out earlier. Fewer than 1 in 100 women will get pregnant over the 3 to 5 years when using an IUS.

Intrauterine device (IUD): more than 99% effective. An IUD can stay in place for 5 or 10 years depending on the type but can be taken out at any time. Fewer than 1 in 100 women will get pregnant in a year, depending on the type of IUD. Older types are less effective.

Natural family planning

Perfect use: can be up to 99% effective if the natural family planning methods are followed precisely. These include monitoring cervical secretions and your basal body temperature. It's more effective if more than 1 method is used and it's taught by specialist teachers. Up to 1 in 100 women will get pregnant in a year when using this method perfectly.

Typical use: around 76% effective. Around 24 in 100 women using natural family planning will get pregnant in a year.